The phrase “national treasure” gets thrown around a lot. But who deserves it more than Danny DeVito? In his storied 45-year career, he's entertained generations of audiences, starring in long-running comedy series (Taxi, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia), films (Batman Returns, L.A. Confidential, Twins), and directing hits (War of the Roses, Matilda).
Now 78, DeVito is going back to his roots in the theater. In the Roundabout Theater Company production I Need That, written by Theresa Rebeck and directed by Moritz von Stuelpnagel, he plays Sam, a crotchety old man living alone who's threatened with eviction because of his hoarding problem. At a recent preview performance, DeVito was a dynamo onstage, making the audience roar and, as the play reached its emotional conclusion, audibly tear up. Even more poignant? His daughter in the play, Amelia, is played by DeVito's real-life daughter Lucy. (Mom is actor Rhea Perlman.)
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